Synthesis of indium oxide nanofibers using electrospinning method towards gas sensor application

Abstract

Indium oxide nanofibers (NFs) were synthesized through a two-step process involving electrospinning followed by calcination. The structural, microstructural, morphological, and elemental characteristics were thoroughly analyzed using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) mapping. The characterization of the In₂O₃, NFs revealed their consistent thickness, structural integrity, and high purity. The nanofibers revealed a uniform diameter spanning from 20 to 50 nm. Upon subjecting the asspun nanofibers to heat treatment at 500°C for 2 h, elongated In₂O₃, nanofibers containing necked nanoparticles were successfully obtained. The first tests of ammonia sensing were done from 250 to 450°C; the In₂O₃ NFs sensor presented a good response of 2.05-100 ppm NH, at an operation temperature of 300°C.